Take a breath before your exam: Visit the Exam Mindfulness Café

Exam season can feel intense. Your heart’s racing, your mind’s jumping ahead, and everywhere you go people are talking about exams.  

If that feels familiar, you’re not alone – and you don’t have to push through it on your own. 

That’s why the Exam Mindfulness Café is here. 

Running from Monday 11th May to Friday 19th June, the mindfulness café is open on every exam day at 8am and 12pm in RE2, offering a calm, supportive space to help you feel more settled before your exam. 

What is the Exam Mindfulness Café? 

It’s a quiet space (all exam talk is banned) designed to help reduce anxiety and give you a moment to pause before heading into your exam. 

There’s no pressure to talk. You can simply come in, sit down, and take a breather. 

What’s available? 

• Fruit teas and water to help you stay hydrated 
• Simple mindfulness activities you can try at your own pace 
• Gentle guided breathing exercises to calm your body and mind 
• Space to bring your breakfast (don’t forget about free toast and porridge in the canteen) or your own food 

Whether you stay for five minutes or longer, everything is optional and relaxed. 

Why come along? 

Even a short pause can make a difference. 

Slowing your breathing, stepping away from noise, and giving your mind a reset can help you feel more grounded, focused, and ready to walk into your exam. 

Many students find that having a calm start – instead of rushing or sitting in a loud pre‑exam area – helps reduce nerves and clear their head. 

Prefer complete quiet? 

If you’d rather be somewhere completely calm and reflective, silent meditation is also available in the Chapel (on the same corridor as RE2).  

This space is ideal if you want complete stillness and time for quiet reflection before your exam.  

You’re always welcome 

The Exam Mindfulness Café is open to everyone. 

If you feel anxious, overwhelmed, or just want a peaceful place to sit before your exam, this space is for you. 

Come as you are, stay until you’re ready to go, and take care of yourself – you’ve already done the hard work. 

When and where? 

• RE2 (Kentigern Building) 
• 8am & 12pm 
• Every exam day (from Monday 11th May 

Need more advice? 

Check out our top tips to help take care of yourself during exam season: